Texas Board of Nursing (BON) Practice Exam

What action is required from a nurse in Texas when suspecting child or elder abuse?

1. File a police report

2. Inform the family members

3. Mandatory reporting to appropriate authorities

4. Conduct an internal investigation

The correct answer is: Mandatory reporting to appropriate authorities

When a nurse in Texas suspects child or elder abuse, the appropriate action is to report the suspicion to the relevant authorities. This mandatory reporting is dictated by Texas law, which requires certain professionals, including nurses, to report any reasonable suspicion of abuse or neglect to the proper authorities, such as Child Protective Services or Adult Protective Services. This reporting is essential for the protection and safety of vulnerable populations, allowing trained investigators to assess the situation and intervene if necessary. This legal obligation emphasizes the nurse's role in safeguarding individuals who may not be able to defend themselves or report their situation. Moreover, this process helps ensure that the suspected abuse is addressed by professionals equipped to handle such cases. Taking actions like filing a police report can be a separate step, but it is not the first requirement under Texas law for healthcare professionals. Informing family members could potentially place the vulnerable individual at greater risk if abusers are involved. Conducting an internal investigation is beyond the scope of a nurse's responsibilities and could interfere with official investigations. Therefore, the correct response focuses on the legal obligation to report the suspicion to the appropriate authorities.